Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Subtype Report

Subtype Report: Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is a highly aggressive subtype of lymphoma, but if properly treated and managed the cure rate is as high as 70%. The prognosis for DLBCL improved significantly starting in 2000 when the monoclonal antibody rituximab was added to the standard chemotherapy of CHOP. A common and widely used treatment for DLBCL has been established as R-CHOP (CHOP with rituximab).

There is a myriad of ongoing research addressing the heterogeneity of DLBCL, better understanding the biology, as well as targeting molecular pathways and the advancement of therapeutic interventions. Moving forward, it will be necessary to investigate these targeted agents within patient populations who are most likely to benefit.

Understanding the importance of diagnosing the GCB and ABC sub groups of DLBCL and how that improves prognostication will be crucial to allow for the possibility of individualised risk-adapted therapy. DLBCL, as a subtype, requires independent reporting to ensure proper trending analysis and outcome reporting.